#EncounterswithJaneAusten #NetGalley
I recently spent a semester reading all six of Jane Austen’s major novels so was intrigued by and delighted to have the opportunity to read this title. Many authors have contributed. Among my favorites are Katherine Reay, Charlie Lovett, Natalie Jenner, Julia Quinn, and Janet Todd.
There are different encounters here. Some are critical looks at the novels, as for example, when Julia Quinn writes on Mansfield Park. Charlie Lovett includes the beginning of his own Austen themed novel. These are just two of many examples.
It is easy to recommend this title to those who love Jane Austen. There is much to enjoy here.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aurora Metro Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 15 October 2025
From the publisher:
Description
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of the literary legend, this anthology features a vibrant mix of short stories, essays, interviews and poetry contributed by over 30 writers and artists. It presents a delightful blend of both contemporary and classic works, accompanied by humorous illustrations and timeless quotes from Jane Austen herself.
With an introductory overview of Austen’s life and work by author and academic Professor Jennie Batchelor, this volume also showcases notable contributors such as Bridgerton author Julia Quinn, actor and writer Talulah Riley, bestselling authors Charlie Lovett and Natalie Jenner, and two Pulitzer Prize-winning poets, Edna St Vincent Millay and Sara Teasdale.
Includes an exclusive interview with Martin Jennings about the making of the new bronze sculpture of Jane Austen which will be unveiled on October 16th at Winchester Cathedral.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“Encounters with Jane Austen is a delightful compendium of reactions—or perhaps we should call them love notes–from many creative writers and other thoughtful interpreters who share their appreciation for Austen. Reading Encounters is like discussing Austen with your best friends if your friends group were to include the likes of Julia Quinn and Natalie Jenner among many other talented authors. Insightful, yet “light and bright and sparkling,” this book offers a wonderful way to celebrate the many facets of Austen’s genius and to enjoy an excellent introduction to her life and impact prepared by scholar Jennie Batchelor.”
Mary Mintz, Librarian Emeritus, American University, Washington
“Fizzing with originality and creative energy, each contributor reveals their own deeply personal encounter with Austen’s work, finding new relevance and importance in the great novelist en route.”
Professor Hannah Greig (Royal Holloway University), author of “The Beau Monde” and historical consultant to film (The Favourite; The Duchess) & TV (Bridgerton; The Buccaneers; Sanditon; Poldark).
“Jane Austen’s much-loved characters read ‘Elegant extracts’, and were very entertained. For us, in the twenty-first century, there’s so much to entertain in this carefully curated collection. It contains poetry, short stories, essays, and interviews with creators and thinkers – and indeed, with Jane herself! Savour in sections, or gobble it up in one sitting as we celebrate 250 years of Austen’s life, her writing, and her enduring legacy.”
Gillian Dow, Assoc. professor at Southampton University.
“A veritable smorgasbord for fans of Austen, as artists, poets, literary critics and writers come together to explore why, at 250, Jane is still inspiring, enthralling and infuriating us.”
Helena Kelly, author of Jane Austen, the Secret Radical and the forthcoming The Worlds of Jane Austen
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 